Duke vs. Kentucky: Who wins position battles in 2018 Champions Classic?

ATLANTA, GA - NOVEMBER 13: Head coach Mike Krzyzewski of the Duke Blue Devils points to his players against the Kentucky Wildcats during the 2012 State Farm Champions Classic at Georgia Dome on November 13, 2012 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

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Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images /

Shooting guard: R.J. Barrett vs. Keldon Johnson

This is probably the most intriguing matchup on the floor. R.J. Barrett has shown a knack for being an efficient scorer through two exhibition contests to start the season. He’s shot 21-of-32 (65.6 percent) from the field in their two warm-up games for an average of 27.5 points per contest.

Kentucky guard Keldon Johnson is another player putting his versatility on display. Johnson is listed at 6-foot-6 but the scrappy guard has turned heads with his ability to make plays on both ends. He’ll have his hands full with Barrett but he should be up for it.

Johnson put up 11 points and five assists in the Wildcats final exhibition victory over the IUP Crimson Hawks back on Nov. 2 but the Blue Devils are a different beast. Calipari has depth on his side but Duke is an explosive team on offense that wants to get out and run.

Kentucky and Johnson will have their work cut out for them in stopping the Blue Devils’ No. 1 scoring option. Barrett will have the green light on the national stage which will make for an interesting opening night of college hoops.

Edge: Barrett

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